A Job Task Analysis (JTA) is the first step in creating a valid exam. The JTA outlines the tasks, knowledge, and skills an EMS professional must perform on the job. The JTA uses subject matter experts (SMEs) from various EMS levels identifying the responsibilities associated with each role. Next, surveys and interviews with EMS professionals help understand which tasks are most critical. From the data collected the SMEs determine how often each task occurs and how critical it is to job performance. The assigned psychometrician verifies the completed JTA, which becomes the foundation for exam content, ensuring it reflects real-world job demands. 

The assigned psychometrician then uses the JTA to create a detailed exam blueprint, which defines the number of questions related to each area of EMS practice. The exam blueprint ensures that the exam covers all essential areas/domains. This blueprint ensures a fair and comprehensive exam. The psychometrician will ensure the statistical validity and reliability of the exam, ensuring it accurately measures competency in essential EMS areas. The current exam blueprint specifies the following: